The Freeport Police Department issued a press release stating that at approximately 2:15 P.M. on 01/23/17, the Officers from the Freeport Police Department were in the area of Walnut Ave. and Pleasant St. conducting an investigation when Officers heard gunfire in the area.

Image: Mike McLain

At that time, Officers observed two vehicles traveling southbound on Walnut at Broadway exchanging gunfire. Officers subsequently pursued both vehicles.

One vehicle was stopped after officers pursued the vehicle. This vehicle had one person that was struck by gunfire. The victim was taken to FHN by ambulance and later transferred to a Rockford hospital for further care.

The occupants of the vehicle are being detained and questioned. Officers pursued the second vehicle.

This vehicle exited the city limits and attempted to elude officers at a high rate of speed. Officers from the Freeport Police Department, Stephenson County Sherriff’s Office, and the Illinois State police, arrested two subjects at the intersection of Rock City Road and River Road.

Those subjects are also being detained and questioned.

The Freeport Police Department believes all parties are accounted for who were involved in this incident. This was not a random act. The Freeport Police Department has investigated several incidents in the last few months that indicate the two parties have been involved in incidents involving each other. The investigation is still in the early stages and the name of the victim is not being released at this time.

It is anticipated that charges will be filed in the future as the investigation continues.